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Mississippi River Forum: The Color of a River

John Anfinson, Historian
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Mr. Anfinson discussed the history of how the Mississippi River was used by various groups of people and the effects those people had on the river. What was the Mississippi River like when only American Indians and early explorers paddled its waters? When did we first begin polluting the Mississippi and how? How bad did it get before anyone did something about it? How closely connected have the river’s health and the health of Twin Cities residents been through time? What are the current challenges?